In Nigeria, a catholic church in the state of Ondo came under an attack by gunmen. At least 50 worshipers including women and children have been killed in the gruesome attack during Mass on Sunday.

Nigeria Catholic Church: 50 worshipers including women and children killed in gruesome attack during Mass

Some gunmen have attacked a catholic church in Nigeria. They opened fire and detonated explosives resulting in the death of at least 50 worshippers.

Nigeria church attack: Gunmen open fire, detonate explosives, at least 50 worshippers killed

The Nigerian government has said that gunmen killed at least 50 people in an open fire at a Catholic church located in the southwest part of the country during mass on Sunday.

According to Funmilayo Ibukun Odunlami, police spokesperson for Ondo state, the gunmen had carried explosives, and the cause of the rare attack is being investigated.

Calling the incident "a great massacre", Ondo state Governor Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu visited the scene of the attack and injured persons in the hospital.

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Catholic Church spokesman in Nigeria, Reverend Augustine Ikwu said "It is so sad that while the Holy Mass was going on, unknown gunmen attacked St Francis Catholic Church...leaving many feared dead and many others injured and the Church violated."

The attack, which took place on the Christian holiday of the Pentecost, was condemned by Pope Francis who said that he will pray for the victims and Nigeria.

Slamming the "heinous killing of worshippers," President Muhammadu Buhari said the victims will get justice.

Nigeria, where jihadists and criminal gangs operate in other regions, is battling a 12-year-old jihadist insurgency in the northeast.

With a mostly Christian south and a predominantly Muslim north, attacks on religious sites are particularly sensitive in Nigeria where tensions sometimes flare between communities.

Mass gun attacks like Sunday's violence are rare in the country's relatively peaceful southwest even though kidnapping assaults are common in most parts of Nigeria, which is Africa's most populous country and the continent's largest economy.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Nigerian government has said that gunmen killed at least 50 people in an open fire at a Catholic church located in the southwest part of the country during mass on Sunday.

The Nigerian government has said that gunmen killed at least 50 people in an open fire at a Catholic church located in the southwest part of the country during mass on Sunday. According to Funmilayo Ibukun Odunlami, police spokesperson for Ondo state, the gunmen had carried explosives, and the cause of the rare attack is being investigated. Calling the incident "a great massacre", Ondo state Governor Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu visited the scene of the attack and injured persons in the hospital. Catholic Church spokesman in Nigeria, Reverend Augustine Ikwu said "It is so sad that while the Holy Mass was going on, unknown gunmen attacked St Francis Catholic Church...leaving many feared dead and many others injured and the Church violated." The attack, which took place on the Christian holiday of the Pentecost, was condemned by Pope Francis who said that he will pray for the victims and Nigeria. Slamming the "heinous killing of worshippers," President Muhammadu Buhari said the victims will get justice. Nigeria, where jihadists and criminal gangs operate in other regions, is battling a 12-year-old jihadist insurgency in the northeast. With a mostly Christian south and a predominantly Muslim north, attacks on religious sites are particularly sensitive in Nigeria where tensions sometimes flare between communities. Mass gun attacks like Sunday's violence are rare in the country's relatively peaceful southwest even though kidnapping assaults are common in most parts of Nigeria, which is Africa's most populous country and the continent's largest economy. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Nigeria massacre: Gunmen kill at least 50 people at Catholic church

Nigeria: Attackers targeted St. Francis catholic church, at least 50 killed

At least nine people have died of monkeypox in Congo in 2022 and Nigeria has recorded its first death from the disease, as more than 20 countries struggle with the recent disease outbreak.

 
Dr Aime Alongo, chief of the Sankuru health division in Congo, said Monday that 465 cases of the disease have been confirmed in the nation, making it one of the worst-hit in West and Central Africa, where the disease is endemic.

 
The persistence of the disease in Congo is due to the consumption of dead monkeys and rodents, Dr Alongo said.

 
"The residents enter the forest, pick up the corpses of monkeys, bats and rodents which are the reservoirs of monkeypox," the official added, urging those with monkeypox symptoms to visit a health centre to isolate themselves.

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Fully agree with this! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/monkeypox?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#monkeypox</a> is not mild, we don’t understand why there’s such a large outbreak. It’s also too early to do exclude a different biological trait in this strain: not a lot of sequences, not enough knowledge what the observed mutations mean. <a href="https://t.co/1N83t2DhYb">https://t.co/1N83t2DhYb</a>
— Isabella Eckerle (@EckerleIsabella) <a href="https://twitter.com/EckerleIsabella/status/1530575147077451777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention announced that in 2022 it has confirmed 21 out of 66 suspected cases of the disease, which is usually endemic in Nigeria and other parts of West and Central Africa.

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A spike in monkeypox cases reported in Europe and the U.S. has generated concerns among those countries, many of whom have not recorded a single case of the disease in years. Over 250 cases of the disease have been reported in more than 20 countries not usually known to have outbreaks, the World Health Organization said.

Monkeypox has not previously triggered widespread outbreaks beyond Africa, where it is endemic.

 
"The biggest challenge that you have with a disease such as monkeypox is that it is uncommon and the perceived risk by the population about how dangerous this condition is has been very low ... that is why ... we have conducted awareness training and advocacy training to increase the level of awareness of health care workers," Adetifa said. 
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At least nine people have died of monkeypox in Congo in 2022 and Nigeria has recorded its first death from the disease, as more than 20 countries struggle with the recent disease outbreak.

At least nine people have died of monkeypox in Congo in 2022 and Nigeria has recorded its first death from the disease, as more than 20 countries struggle with the recent disease outbreak. Dr Aime Alongo, chief of the Sankuru health division in Congo, said Monday that 465 cases of the disease have been confirmed in the nation, making it one of the worst-hit in West and Central Africa, where the disease is endemic. The persistence of the disease in Congo is due to the consumption of dead monkeys and rodents, Dr Alongo said. "The residents enter the forest, pick up the corpses of monkeys, bats and rodents which are the reservoirs of monkeypox," the official added, urging those with monkeypox symptoms to visit a health centre to isolate themselves. Fully agree with this! #monkeypox is not mild, we don’t understand why there’s such a large outbreak. It’s also too early to do exclude a different biological trait in this strain: not a lot of sequences, not enough knowledge what the observed mutations mean. https://t.co/1N83t2DhYb — Isabella Eckerle (@EckerleIsabella) May 28, 2022 × The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention announced that in 2022 it has confirmed 21 out of 66 suspected cases of the disease, which is usually endemic in Nigeria and other parts of West and Central Africa. A spike in monkeypox cases reported in Europe and the U.S. has generated concerns among those countries, many of whom have not recorded a single case of the disease in years. Over 250 cases of the disease have been reported in more than 20 countries not usually known to have outbreaks, the World Health Organization said. Monkeypox has not previously triggered widespread outbreaks beyond Africa, where it is endemic. "The biggest challenge that you have with a disease such as monkeypox is that it is uncommon and the perceived risk by the population about how dangerous this condition is has been very low ... that is why ... we have conducted awareness training and advocacy training to increase the level of awareness of health care workers," Adetifa said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Monkeypox: 9 dead in Congo, first death in Nigeria in 2022

Russia has claimed that US has biolabs in Nigerian cities that have been responsible for spread of monkeypox. Sputnik News&nbsp;quoted Igor Kirillov, chief of the Russian Radiation, Chemical and Biological Defence Troops. Kirilov has reportedly published a news on Friday (May 27) in which he has made the allegations.

Kirilov reportedly noted WHO's conclusion of monkeypox having spread from Nigeria and said that US biolabs were responsible for it. In his briefing, he claimed that US biolabs were present in cities Abuja, Zaria and Lagos.&nbsp;

Lagos is capital of Nigeria.

The briefing urged World Health Organisation (WHO) to investigate the alleged US role in spreading monkeypox.

Need to act against monkeypox 'now': WHO

The WHO has said that if world acted quickly against monkeypox, it can be contained easily.

"We think that if we put in place the right measures now we probably can contain this easily," Sylvie Briand, WHO director for Global Infectious Hazard Preparedness, told the U.N. agency's annual assembly.

Till now, about 300 cases have been found in around 20 countries.

"For us, we think that the key priority currently is trying to contain this transmission in non-endemic countries," Briand told a technical briefing for member states.

Needed measures included the early detection and isolation of cases and contact tracing, she added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russia has claimed that US has biolabs in Nigerian cities that have been responsible for spread of monkeypox. Sputnik News quoted Igor Kirillov, chief of the Russian Radiation, Chemical and Biological Defence Troops.

Russia has claimed that US has biolabs in Nigerian cities that have been responsible for spread of monkeypox. Sputnik News quoted Igor Kirillov, chief of the Russian Radiation, Chemical and Biological Defence Troops. Kirilov has reportedly published a news on Friday (May 27) in which he has made the allegations. Kirilov reportedly noted WHO's conclusion of monkeypox having spread from Nigeria and said that US biolabs were responsible for it. In his briefing, he claimed that US biolabs were present in cities Abuja, Zaria and Lagos. Lagos is capital of Nigeria. The briefing urged World Health Organisation (WHO) to investigate the alleged US role in spreading monkeypox. Need to act against monkeypox 'now': WHO The WHO has said that if world acted quickly against monkeypox, it can be contained easily. "We think that if we put in place the right measures now we probably can contain this easily," Sylvie Briand, WHO director for Global Infectious Hazard Preparedness, told the U.N. agency's annual assembly. Till now, about 300 cases have been found in around 20 countries. "For us, we think that the key priority currently is trying to contain this transmission in non-endemic countries," Briand told a technical briefing for member states. Needed measures included the early detection and isolation of cases and contact tracing, she added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Monkeypox: Russia alleges US labs in Nigeria spreading the disease

At least 31 people were killed on Saturday when a stampede broke out in southern Nigeria during a church charity event where food was being distributed.

The disaster took place in Port Harcourt city in Nigeria's Rivers state, local police spokeswoman Grace Iringe-Koko said.&nbsp;Among the injured were&nbsp;mostly children. It is being called a ‘Black Saturday.’

According to reports, members of the public had gathered at the polo club, following an invitation by the King’s Assembly, a church in Port Harcourt, for the distribution of gift items including foodstuff.

People gathered in large numbers outside the gate of the church in hope of receiving alms from the organisers, but reportedly the entry gate was too small, and as soon as it was opened, the crowd surged at the gate, pushing attendees down&nbsp;resulting in a stampede.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies)

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At least 31 people were killed on Saturday when a stampede broke out in southern Nigeria during a church charity event where food was being distributed. The disaster took place in Port Harcourt city in Nigeria's Rivers state, local police spokeswoman Grace Iringe-Koko said.

At least 31 people were killed on Saturday when a stampede broke out in southern Nigeria during a church charity event where food was being distributed. The disaster took place in Port Harcourt city in Nigeria's Rivers state, local police spokeswoman Grace Iringe-Koko said. Among the injured were mostly children. It is being called a ‘Black Saturday.’ According to reports, members of the public had gathered at the polo club, following an invitation by the King’s Assembly, a church in Port Harcourt, for the distribution of gift items including foodstuff. People gathered in large numbers outside the gate of the church in hope of receiving alms from the organisers, but reportedly the entry gate was too small, and as soon as it was opened, the crowd surged at the gate, pushing attendees down resulting in a stampede. (With inputs from Agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

At least 31 dead in Nigeria stampede

In Nigeria, the police dispersed an angry crowd searching for a woman they accused of making a blasphemous comment against the prophet Muhammad. The protest took place days after another woman was accused of blasphemy and was killed by a mob in northwestern Sokoto.

Protests in Nigeria after arrests for ‘blasphemy’ killing of female student

Nigeria blasphemy protest: Another woman accused of Blasphemy

A female student in northern Nigerian college has been killed over her comments in a WhatsApp group which other students called blasphemous. Her body was also allegedly burned afterwards within the school premises. Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Mob kills student over 'blasphemy' in Nigeria

Muslim students in northwest Nigerian city of Sokoto stoned a Christian student to death and burned her corpse after accusing her of blasphemy against the Prophet Muhammad.

Mob kills female student over ‘blasphemy’ in Nigeria, two arrested

In a brutal incident, a female student has been beaten to death and set afire in Nigeria by peers over accusations of making "blasphemous" statements in a student group on Whatsapp, media reports said citing police and witnesses. &nbsp;

The incident happened in Nigeria's northwesternmost state of Sokoto. The school was also immediately closed. In this case, two suspects have been held. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The victim was identified as Deborah Samuel, said Sokoto state command spokesperson. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kenya-eco-friendly-tourism-sees-tourists-riding-camels-when-on-safari-477918" hreflang="en">Kenya: Eco-friendly tourism sees tourists riding camels when on safari</a>

"There is a WhatsApp group being used by the students and her Muslim colleague student posted an Islamic piece. She criticised the posting. She composed an audio that contains blasphemous comments on the Prophet of Islam and posted in the group, that is what triggered everything," a witnesses told Reuters on condition of anonymity. &nbsp;

School security and police tried to rescue the victim but were overpowered by the students, the reports said citing witnesses. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In a statement, police spokesperson Sanusi Abubakar said, "Students forcefully removed the victim from the security room where she was hidden by the school authorities, killed her and burnt the building." &nbsp;

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"Police fired teargas on the students...then began firing shots in the sky to disperse the students, but they resisted. The police sacrificed the lady after the students began throwing sticks and stones at them, then the students used stones and sticks to beat the lady. After being beaten, she was set on fire," a student told Reuters. &nbsp;

The Sultanate Council Sokoto also condemned the "unfortunate happenings...that led to the loss of life of a female student at the institution." &nbsp;&nbsp;

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(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;&nbsp;

In a brutal incident, a female student has been beaten to death and set afire in Nigeria by peers over accusations of making "blasphemous" statements in a student group on Whatsapp, media reports said citing police and witnesses.

In a brutal incident, a female student has been beaten to death and set afire in Nigeria by peers over accusations of making "blasphemous" statements in a student group on Whatsapp, media reports said citing police and witnesses. The incident happened in Nigeria's northwesternmost state of Sokoto. The school was also immediately closed. In this case, two suspects have been held. The victim was identified as Deborah Samuel, said Sokoto state command spokesperson. Also Read | Kenya: Eco-friendly tourism sees tourists riding camels when on safari "There is a WhatsApp group being used by the students and her Muslim colleague student posted an Islamic piece. She criticised the posting. She composed an audio that contains blasphemous comments on the Prophet of Islam and posted in the group, that is what triggered everything," a witnesses told Reuters on condition of anonymity. School security and police tried to rescue the victim but were overpowered by the students, the reports said citing witnesses. In a statement, police spokesperson Sanusi Abubakar said, "Students forcefully removed the victim from the security room where she was hidden by the school authorities, killed her and burnt the building." Watch: Somalians endure impact of drought, Ukraine war × "Police fired teargas on the students...then began firing shots in the sky to disperse the students, but they resisted. The police sacrificed the lady after the students began throwing sticks and stones at them, then the students used stones and sticks to beat the lady. After being beaten, she was set on fire," a student told Reuters. The Sultanate Council Sokoto also condemned the "unfortunate happenings...that led to the loss of life of a female student at the institution." WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies)

Brutal killing: Female student beaten to death, set afire in Nigeria by peers over "blasphemous" statements

In Nigeria, gunmen have killed at least 48 people. Dozens of men entered three villages on their motorcycles, opened fire on people as they tried to flee. The attack looked coordinated and pre-planned while the exact motive is not still known, the bandits did loot livestock and food supplies.

Nigeria: Gunman kills 48 in the Northwest, Zamfara state comes under attack

Gunmen have killed at least 48 people in attacks on three villages in northwest Nigeria’s Zamfara state.

Attacks Grip Nigeria: Gunmen kill 48 in Northwest Nigeria

An oil refinery blast in Nigeria has killed over 100 people now. The extent of damage is yet to be assessed. Watch this report to know more.

Nigeria oil refinery blast kills 100: crackdown on illegal refinery likely

Vehicles were left burnt out and fuel pooled on the ground in Nigeria's Imo state on Sunday (April 24) following an overnight explosion at an illegal oil refining depot.

Explosion at Nigerian illegal oil refinery kills over 100

Nigeria oil refinery blast claims over 100 lives, extent of damage yet to be assessed

Africa's biggest oil producer and exporter Nigeria, where more than110 have been killed in deadly explosion at an illegal oil refinery.

More than 110 killed in deadly explosion at Nigeria's illegal refinery

An NGO reported Saturday that several people were likely burned to death overnight after an explosion at an illegal oil refinery in southern Nigeria.

AFP reports that while the explosion was confirmed by police late Friday,&nbsp;no details on the victims were provided.

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Local media accounts state that over 100 people were killed in the latest incident in Nigeria, Africa's largest crude producer.

According to police, an explosion occurred late Friday at the site of an illegal refinery where operators and their patrons had gathered for business.

"Several bodies burnt beyond recognition lay on the ground while others who may have attempted running for safety are seen hanging on some tree branches," said Fyneface Dumnamene, Executive Director of Youths and Environmental Advocacy Centre (YEAC).

Watch |&nbsp;African students allege hostilities: Nigerian medical students return home

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Rivers state police spokeswoman Grace Iringe-Koko told AFP that "the incident happened on the boundary between Rivers and Imo state." No&nbsp;additional information was provided.

Despite being the continent's largest oil producer, with roughly two million barrels per day, the majority of people in the oil-producing Niger delta live in poverty. Because of the unemployment and poverty in the oil-producing Niger Delta, illegal crude refining has become a lucrative enterprise, but it has terrible repercussions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigerian-police-raid-bomb-factory-in-restive-southeast-473209">Nigerian police raid bomb factory in restive southeast</a>

Pipeline fires are prevalent in Nigeria, influenced by&nbsp;a combination of poor pipeline maintenance and thieves who vandalise pipelines to steal petrol and sell it on the black market.

Hundreds of people have been killed in the past as a result of petroleum product theft and illicit refining, known as bunkering in the area.&nbsp;As part of attempts to curb the theft of the country's oil riches, the government has dispatched the military to attack and demolish illegal refineries in the Niger delta.

(With inputs from agencies)

An NGO reported Saturday that several people were likely burned to death overnight after an explosion at an illegal oil refinery in southern Nigeria. AFP reports that while the explosion was confirmed by police late Friday, no details on the victims were provided.

An NGO reported Saturday that several people were likely burned to death overnight after an explosion at an illegal oil refinery in southern Nigeria. AFP reports that while the explosion was confirmed by police late Friday, no details on the victims were provided. Also read | Islamic State claims Nigeria bombing, says about 30 killed or hurt Local media accounts state that over 100 people were killed in the latest incident in Nigeria, Africa's largest crude producer. According to police, an explosion occurred late Friday at the site of an illegal refinery where operators and their patrons had gathered for business. "Several bodies burnt beyond recognition lay on the ground while others who may have attempted running for safety are seen hanging on some tree branches," said Fyneface Dumnamene, Executive Director of Youths and Environmental Advocacy Centre (YEAC). Watch | African students allege hostilities: Nigerian medical students return home Rivers state police spokeswoman Grace Iringe-Koko told AFP that "the incident happened on the boundary between Rivers and Imo state." No additional information was provided. Despite being the continent's largest oil producer, with roughly two million barrels per day, the majority of people in the oil-producing Niger delta live in poverty. Because of the unemployment and poverty in the oil-producing Niger Delta, illegal crude refining has become a lucrative enterprise, but it has terrible repercussions. Also read | Nigerian police raid bomb factory in restive southeast Pipeline fires are prevalent in Nigeria, influenced by a combination of poor pipeline maintenance and thieves who vandalise pipelines to steal petrol and sell it on the black market. Hundreds of people have been killed in the past as a result of petroleum product theft and illicit refining, known as bunkering in the area. As part of attempts to curb the theft of the country's oil riches, the government has dispatched the military to attack and demolish illegal refineries in the Niger delta. (With inputs from agencies)

Over 100 people killed in an explosion at a Nigerian illegal oil refinery

Nigerian police have raided a bomb factory in the southeast where separatist violence is on the rise and arrested a suspect, a spokesman said Saturday.

The raid happened on Wednesday at Uba Umuaka in southeastern Imo state following a tip-off, state police spokesman Michael Abattam said in a statement.

He said police were informed about a hideout where the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its militant wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN) "are manufacturing Improvised Explosive Devices used in attacking police stations and government facilities in the state".

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"In the course of the raid, one Simeon Onigbo, 50 years, was arrested. On interrogation, the suspect admitted being the manufacturer of most of the Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) used in attacking police stations in the state and outside the state."

Abattam said items recovered included one IED, cannon steel piping, bags of potassium nitrate, sulphur, sand and gunpowder.

"Investigation is ongoing. The suspect has made useful statement and mentioned members of his gang outside the state," he added.

Southeast Nigeria has seen a surge in violence, with more than 130 police and other security personnel killed by gunmen since last year, according to local media tallies.

Authorities have blamed attacks on either IPOB, which is campaigning for a separate state for the ethnic Igbo people, or ESN.

Watch |&nbsp;African students allege hostilities: Nigerian medical students return home

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The group has denied responsibility for the violence.&nbsp;

IPOB said on Saturday, "Those behind these atrocities are not IPOB members nor are they Eastern Security Network operatives."

"The perpetrators are criminals recruited by our enemies to demonise us," an IPOB statement said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigeria-seminary-student-dies-while-re-enacting-jesus-christs-crucifixion-471916">Nigeria: Seminary student&nbsp;dies while re-enacting Jesus Christ's crucifixion</a>

"No member of IPOB will engage in acts inimical to the people we are struggling to liberate. We are not terrorists and we cannot suddenly resort to terrorism."&nbsp;

Last month, gunmen using dynamite attacked two police stations in Imo.

Separatist movements in Nigeria are a particularly sensitive issue, after a 1967 unilateral declaration of an independent Biafra republic by dissident Igbo army officers sparked a 30-month civil war.

More than one million people,&nbsp;mostly Igbos, died from the conflict, hunger and disease.

Nigerian police have raided a bomb factory in the southeast where separatist violence is on the rise and arrested a suspect, a spokesman said Saturday. The raid happened on Wednesday at Uba Umuaka in southeastern Imo state following a tip-off, state police spokesman Michael Abattam said in a statement.

Nigerian police have raided a bomb factory in the southeast where separatist violence is on the rise and arrested a suspect, a spokesman said Saturday. The raid happened on Wednesday at Uba Umuaka in southeastern Imo state following a tip-off, state police spokesman Michael Abattam said in a statement. He said police were informed about a hideout where the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its militant wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN) "are manufacturing Improvised Explosive Devices used in attacking police stations and government facilities in the state". Also read | Islamic State claims Nigeria bombing, says about 30 killed or hurt "In the course of the raid, one Simeon Onigbo, 50 years, was arrested. On interrogation, the suspect admitted being the manufacturer of most of the Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) used in attacking police stations in the state and outside the state." Abattam said items recovered included one IED, cannon steel piping, bags of potassium nitrate, sulphur, sand and gunpowder. "Investigation is ongoing. The suspect has made useful statement and mentioned members of his gang outside the state," he added. Southeast Nigeria has seen a surge in violence, with more than 130 police and other security personnel killed by gunmen since last year, according to local media tallies. Authorities have blamed attacks on either IPOB, which is campaigning for a separate state for the ethnic Igbo people, or ESN. Watch | African students allege hostilities: Nigerian medical students return home The group has denied responsibility for the violence. IPOB said on Saturday, "Those behind these atrocities are not IPOB members nor are they Eastern Security Network operatives." "The perpetrators are criminals recruited by our enemies to demonise us," an IPOB statement said. Also read | Nigeria: Seminary student dies while re-enacting Jesus Christ's crucifixion "No member of IPOB will engage in acts inimical to the people we are struggling to liberate. We are not terrorists and we cannot suddenly resort to terrorism." Last month, gunmen using dynamite attacked two police stations in Imo. Separatist movements in Nigeria are a particularly sensitive issue, after a 1967 unilateral declaration of an independent Biafra republic by dissident Igbo army officers sparked a 30-month civil war. More than one million people, mostly Igbos, died from the conflict, hunger and disease.

Nigerian police raid bomb factory in restive southeast

Islamic State claimed responsibility for an explosion that it said killed or injured 30 people at a market where alcohol was sold in Taraba State, Nigeria, marking an expansion of the area where the extremist group operates in the country.

Northeast Nigeria, especially the states of Borno and Yobe, have been in the grip of Islamist insurgencies for over a decade, but Taraba, located at the eastern end of Nigeria's Middle Belt central region, has not previously been attacked.

The explosion took place on Tuesday in Iware, a rural town, and local police initially said three people were killed and 19 injured. They could not immediately be reached on Thursday to comment on the Islamic State claim or casualty count.

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In a statement posted late on Wednesday on a Telegram messaging channel used by Islamic State to distribute its propaganda, the group described those who detonated the bomb in the market as "soldiers of the caliphate in central Nigeria".

The statement said the attack had struck "a gathering of infidel Christians" and expressed satisfaction that the drinking spot had been damaged. It did not break down the casualty figure into dead and injured.

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">The whole of Nigeria, Africa's most populous nation, has been suffering from a rise in crime and violence, exacerbated by the economic hardship caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.</div>

Armed robberies are rife everywhere, kidnappings for ransom have become increasingly common, and the northwest has been hit by mass abductions of children from schools as well as indiscriminate attacks on towns and village by armed gangs.

The worst and longest-running crisis, however, is in the northeast, where rival Islamist groups Boko Haram and Islamic State in West Africa (ISWAP) have killed, abducted and looted on a massive scale whilst fighting against the Nigerian military.

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In the latest attack, on the town of Geidam in Yobe State, Boko Haram fighters came in the early hours of Thursday and burnt down a school and several private buildings, according to two residents and two security sources.

The residents said a local drinking spot selling beer had been attacked. One said he had seen nine dead bodies, while the other said he had seen several dead including two women. The authorities were yet to release a death toll.

Islamic State claimed responsibility for an explosion that it said killed or injured 30 people at a market where alcohol was sold in Taraba State, Nigeria, marking an expansion of the area where the extremist group operates in the country.

Islamic State claimed responsibility for an explosion that it said killed or injured 30 people at a market where alcohol was sold in Taraba State, Nigeria, marking an expansion of the area where the extremist group operates in the country. Northeast Nigeria, especially the states of Borno and Yobe, have been in the grip of Islamist insurgencies for over a decade, but Taraba, located at the eastern end of Nigeria's Middle Belt central region, has not previously been attacked. The explosion took place on Tuesday in Iware, a rural town, and local police initially said three people were killed and 19 injured. They could not immediately be reached on Thursday to comment on the Islamic State claim or casualty count. Also read | Nigeria: Seminary student dies while re-enacting Jesus Christ's crucifixion In a statement posted late on Wednesday on a Telegram messaging channel used by Islamic State to distribute its propaganda, the group described those who detonated the bomb in the market as "soldiers of the caliphate in central Nigeria". The statement said the attack had struck "a gathering of infidel Christians" and expressed satisfaction that the drinking spot had been damaged. It did not break down the casualty figure into dead and injured. Watch | Social enterprise in Kenya treats human waste, turns waste into fuel The whole of Nigeria, Africa's most populous nation, has been suffering from a rise in crime and violence, exacerbated by the economic hardship caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Armed robberies are rife everywhere, kidnappings for ransom have become increasingly common, and the northwest has been hit by mass abductions of children from schools as well as indiscriminate attacks on towns and village by armed gangs. The worst and longest-running crisis, however, is in the northeast, where rival Islamist groups Boko Haram and Islamic State in West Africa (ISWAP) have killed, abducted and looted on a massive scale whilst fighting against the Nigerian military. Also read | Nigeria condemns reports of racism at Ukraine border In the latest attack, on the town of Geidam in Yobe State, Boko Haram fighters came in the early hours of Thursday and burnt down a school and several private buildings, according to two residents and two security sources. The residents said a local drinking spot selling beer had been attacked. One said he had seen nine dead bodies, while the other said he had seen several dead including two women. The authorities were yet to release a death toll.

Islamic State claims Nigeria bombing, says about 30 killed or hurt

Nigerian Vice President Yemi Osinbajo declared that he is planning to run for Presidency in the elections due next year.

The new electoral act & road ahead: Vice President to run for Presidency in Nigeria

At least seven people were killed and&nbsp;several&nbsp;were missing&nbsp;after&nbsp;suspected bandits&nbsp;attacked a&nbsp;passenger&nbsp;train&nbsp;headed to the northern&nbsp;Nigerian city of Kaduna from the capital Abuja on Monday night, a&nbsp;passenger&nbsp;and a security source said.

Suspected bandits blew rail tracks and exchanged fire with security officials aboard the&nbsp;train, the second such incident since October that highlights growing insecurity in Africa's most populous nation.

The&nbsp;Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) said in a statement on Tuesday it had temporarily suspended services on the Abuja-Kaduna route following the&nbsp;attack, which took place some 30 minutes from Kaduna.

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Two NRC workers and five security personnel were killed when&nbsp;gunmen&nbsp;opened fire on the&nbsp;train, a&nbsp;passenger&nbsp;and member of Kaduna's security service told Reuters.

A Kaduna police spokesman did not respond to calls and text messages seeking comment.

Kaduna security services were expected to hold a media briefing media later on Tuesday, local television stations reported.

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Kaduna-based journalist Yusuf Atta said his mother and sister were on the&nbsp;train&nbsp;and were not accounted for as of Tuesday morning.

Most of the more than 900&nbsp;passengers were taken from the scene of the&nbsp;attack&nbsp;on buses to Kaduna as deployed security forces kept watch on the&nbsp;train, relatives of the&nbsp;passengers told Reuters.

An unknown number of&nbsp;passengers were&nbsp;injured&nbsp;and receiving treatment at a local hospital, Kaduna state internal security ministry said.

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At least seven people were killed and several were missing after suspected bandits attacked a passenger train headed to the northern Nigerian city of Kaduna from the capital Abuja on Monday night, a passenger and a security source said.

At least seven people were killed and several were missing after suspected bandits attacked a passenger train headed to the northern Nigerian city of Kaduna from the capital Abuja on Monday night, a passenger and a security source said. Suspected bandits blew rail tracks and exchanged fire with security officials aboard the train, the second such incident since October that highlights growing insecurity in Africa's most populous nation. The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) said in a statement on Tuesday it had temporarily suspended services on the Abuja-Kaduna route following the attack, which took place some 30 minutes from Kaduna. Also read | Nigeria condemns reports of racism at Ukraine border Two NRC workers and five security personnel were killed when gunmen opened fire on the train, a passenger and member of Kaduna's security service told Reuters. A Kaduna police spokesman did not respond to calls and text messages seeking comment. Kaduna security services were expected to hold a media briefing media later on Tuesday, local television stations reported. Also read | Nigeria's looted Benin bronzes returned, more than a century later Kaduna-based journalist Yusuf Atta said his mother and sister were on the train and were not accounted for as of Tuesday morning. Most of the more than 900 passengers were taken from the scene of the attack on buses to Kaduna as deployed security forces kept watch on the train, relatives of the passengers told Reuters. An unknown number of passengers were injured and receiving treatment at a local hospital, Kaduna state internal security ministry said. Watch | Nigeria destroys more than 1 million AstraZeneca COVID vaccine doses

At least 7 dead after suspected bandits attack train in northern Nigeria: Report

Nigeria on Monday urged border officials in Ukraine and neighbouring countries to treat its citizens equally amid mounting reports of racial discrimination against Africans fleeing the Russian invasion.

Nigerians, Ghananians and other Africans, many of them students, have joined hundreds of thousands of people trying to escape Ukraine across borders into Poland and other nations.&nbsp;

"There have been unfortunate reports of Ukrainian police and security personnel refusing to allow Nigerians to board buses and trains heading towards the Ukraine-Poland border," said presidential advisor Garba Shehu in a statement.

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"In one video widely circulating on social media, a Nigerian mother with her young baby was filmed being physically forced to give up her seat to another person."

He said there are also separate reports of Polish officials refusing Nigerian citizens entry into Poland from Ukraine.&nbsp;

"Those in official positions in security and border management will in most cases be experiencing impossible expectations in a situation they never expected," he said.&nbsp;

"For that reason, it is paramount that everyone is treated with dignity and without favour."

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Poland's ambassador to Nigeria Joanna Tarnawska has dismissed claims of unfair treatement. &nbsp;

"Everybody receives equal treatment. I can assure you that I have reports that already some Nigerian nationals have crossed the border into Poland," she told local media.

She said Nigerians had 15 days to leave the country or find other arrangements. Even invalid documents were being accepted to cross the border and Covid-19 restrictions were lifted, she said.

The Ukrainian embassy in Nigeria could not immediately be reached for comments.

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The European Union on Sunday moved to coordinate management of hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians fleeing the Russian attack.

Around 400,000 Ukrainians have crossed into the EU since the start of the offensive on Thursday, according to an AFP tally. Half of them entered Poland, its government said.

Nigeria on Monday urged border officials in Ukraine and neighbouring countries to treat its citizens equally amid mounting reports of racial discrimination against Africans fleeing the Russian invasion.

Nigeria on Monday urged border officials in Ukraine and neighbouring countries to treat its citizens equally amid mounting reports of racial discrimination against Africans fleeing the Russian invasion. Nigerians, Ghananians and other Africans, many of them students, have joined hundreds of thousands of people trying to escape Ukraine across borders into Poland and other nations. "There have been unfortunate reports of Ukrainian police and security personnel refusing to allow Nigerians to board buses and trains heading towards the Ukraine-Poland border," said presidential advisor Garba Shehu in a statement. Also read | 'Racially disparate treatment': New Jersey governor condemns police for racist behaviour towards a teen "In one video widely circulating on social media, a Nigerian mother with her young baby was filmed being physically forced to give up her seat to another person." He said there are also separate reports of Polish officials refusing Nigerian citizens entry into Poland from Ukraine. "Those in official positions in security and border management will in most cases be experiencing impossible expectations in a situation they never expected," he said. "For that reason, it is paramount that everyone is treated with dignity and without favour." Also read | More than 2000 detained in anti-war protests across Russia Poland's ambassador to Nigeria Joanna Tarnawska has dismissed claims of unfair treatement. "Everybody receives equal treatment. I can assure you that I have reports that already some Nigerian nationals have crossed the border into Poland," she told local media. She said Nigerians had 15 days to leave the country or find other arrangements. Even invalid documents were being accepted to cross the border and Covid-19 restrictions were lifted, she said. The Ukrainian embassy in Nigeria could not immediately be reached for comments. Watch | UK PM Boris Johnson faces new allegations of racism in his party The European Union on Sunday moved to coordinate management of hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians fleeing the Russian attack. Around 400,000 Ukrainians have crossed into the EU since the start of the offensive on Thursday, according to an AFP tally. Half of them entered Poland, its government said.

Nigeria condemns reports of racism at Ukraine border

The London court will today begin to hear a lawsuit launched by Nigeria against US bank JP Morgan chase, claiming more than $1.7 billion for its role in a disputed 2011 oil field deal.

Nigeria sues JP Morgan for $1.7 billion over oil deal

An air strike by the Nigerian army targeting 'bandits' has left seven children dead and five others wounded "by mistake" in the Maradi region of southern Niger.

Nigeria airstrike targeting bandits kills 7 children, injured 5

An air strike by the Nigerian army targeting 'bandits' has left seven children dead and five others wounded "by mistake" in the Maradi region of southern Niger, a local governor told AFP on Sunday.

"There was a mistake with the Nigerian strikes on the border that resulted in victims on our territory in the village of Nachade" on Friday, said Chaibou Aboubacar, governor of the Maradi region, close to&nbsp;Nigeria.&nbsp;

"The victims are 12 children, seven of them dead and five wounded."

Four children died instantly and three others succumbed "to their injuries while being transported to hospital", he said.

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According to the governor, "the parents were attending a ceremony and the children were probably playing when the strikes" hit them.&nbsp;

He believes the planes were targeting "armed bandits" in the border areas, but "missed their target" hitting Nachade instead.&nbsp;

Aboubacar said he visited the children's graves on Saturday as well as the scene of the bombardment.&nbsp;

Several municipalities in the Maradi region are seriously affected by the violence of heavily armed gangs from the Nigerian states of neighbouring Katsina, Sokoto and Zamfara.&nbsp;

In 2018, Niamey reinforced military patrols along its border with&nbsp;Nigeria&nbsp;to prevent the incursions of these gangs which carry out assassinations, kidnappings for ransom, attacks on traders and raids on cattle which they then lead into&nbsp;Nigeria.&nbsp;

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In April 2021, International Crisis Group (ICG) said it feared a third jihadist centre could emerge in this region of Maradi, exploiting the actions of Nigerian gangs and conflicts between local communities.&nbsp;

Niger already faces two jihadist fronts. The Nigerian group Boko Haram and the Islamic State in West Africa (ISWAP), its dissident branch, are operating in the south-east while groups affiliated with the Islamic State (IS) and Al-Qaeda are at work in the west.&nbsp;

According to the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the Maradi is host to 100,000 Nigerian refugees, who have fled the relentless attacks in their country.&nbsp;

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In mid-February 2015, 36 people were killed &nbsp;in a bombardment by an "unidentified" plane against a mosque in the village of Abadam in the Diffa region (southeast) where Boko Haram jihadists had just made their first attacks against Niger.

&nbsp;

An air strike by the Nigerian army targeting 'bandits' has left seven children dead and five others wounded "by mistake" in the Maradi region of southern Niger, a local governor told AFP on Sunday.

An air strike by the Nigerian army targeting 'bandits' has left seven children dead and five others wounded "by mistake" in the Maradi region of southern Niger, a local governor told AFP on Sunday. "There was a mistake with the Nigerian strikes on the border that resulted in victims on our territory in the village of Nachade" on Friday, said Chaibou Aboubacar, governor of the Maradi region, close to Nigeria. "The victims are 12 children, seven of them dead and five wounded." Four children died instantly and three others succumbed "to their injuries while being transported to hospital", he said. Also read | Nigeria's looted Benin bronzes returned, more than a century later According to the governor, "the parents were attending a ceremony and the children were probably playing when the strikes" hit them. He believes the planes were targeting "armed bandits" in the border areas, but "missed their target" hitting Nachade instead. Aboubacar said he visited the children's graves on Saturday as well as the scene of the bombardment. Several municipalities in the Maradi region are seriously affected by the violence of heavily armed gangs from the Nigerian states of neighbouring Katsina, Sokoto and Zamfara. In 2018, Niamey reinforced military patrols along its border with Nigeria to prevent the incursions of these gangs which carry out assassinations, kidnappings for ransom, attacks on traders and raids on cattle which they then lead into Nigeria. Also read | Around 200 killed in deadly attacks by armed bandits in Nigeria, say residents In April 2021, International Crisis Group (ICG) said it feared a third jihadist centre could emerge in this region of Maradi, exploiting the actions of Nigerian gangs and conflicts between local communities. Niger already faces two jihadist fronts. The Nigerian group Boko Haram and the Islamic State in West Africa (ISWAP), its dissident branch, are operating in the south-east while groups affiliated with the Islamic State (IS) and Al-Qaeda are at work in the west. According to the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the Maradi is host to 100,000 Nigerian refugees, who have fled the relentless attacks in their country. Watch | Nigeria destroys more than 1 million AstraZeneca COVID vaccine doses In mid-February 2015, 36 people were killed in a bombardment by an "unidentified" plane against a mosque in the village of Abadam in the Diffa region (southeast) where Boko Haram jihadists had just made their first attacks against Niger.

Stray Nigeria air strike kills seven children in Niger

Two&nbsp;Benin&nbsp;bronzes&nbsp;were&nbsp;returned&nbsp;on Saturday to a traditional palace in Nigeria,&nbsp;more&nbsp;than&nbsp;a&nbsp;century&nbsp;after they were pillaged by British troops, raising hopes that thousands&nbsp;more&nbsp;artefacts could finally be&nbsp;returned&nbsp;to their ancestral home.

The artefacts, mostly in Europe, were stolen by explorers and colonizers from the once mighty&nbsp;Benin&nbsp;Kingdom, now southwestern Nigeria, and are among Africa's most significant heritage objects. They were created as early as the 16th&nbsp;century&nbsp;onwards, according to the British Museum.

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At a colourful ceremony to mark the return of a cockerel sculpture and head of an Oba or king, spokesman Charles Edosonmwan for the Oba palace in&nbsp;Benin&nbsp;City noted that some of the&nbsp;bronzes&nbsp;were kept as far away as New Zealand, the United States and Japan.

The two artefacts were handed over to the Nigerian High Commission in October by the University of Aberdeen and Cambridge University's Jesus College but have yet to return to their ancestral home.

"They are not just art but they are things that underline the significance of our spirituality," Edosonmwan said in an interview on the sidelines of a ceremony attended by traditional leaders.

Watch |&nbsp;Terrorists Kidnap 20 children in Nigeria's Borno state

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The return is another milestone in the years-long fight by African countries to recover&nbsp;looted&nbsp;works, as numerous European institutions are grappling with the cultural legacies of colonialism.

Some 90% of Africa's cultural heritage is believed to be in Europe, French art historians estimate. Musée du quai Branly–Jacques Chirac in Paris alone holds around 70,000 African objects and London's British Museum tens of thousands&nbsp;more.

Two Benin bronzes were returned on Saturday to a traditional palace in Nigeria, more than a century after they were pillaged by British troops, raising hopes that thousands more artefacts could finally be returned to their ancestral home.

Two Benin bronzes were returned on Saturday to a traditional palace in Nigeria, more than a century after they were pillaged by British troops, raising hopes that thousands more artefacts could finally be returned to their ancestral home. The artefacts, mostly in Europe, were stolen by explorers and colonizers from the once mighty Benin Kingdom, now southwestern Nigeria, and are among Africa's most significant heritage objects. They were created as early as the 16th century onwards, according to the British Museum. Also read | Nigeria restores Twitter after company agrees to open regional office At a colourful ceremony to mark the return of a cockerel sculpture and head of an Oba or king, spokesman Charles Edosonmwan for the Oba palace in Benin City noted that some of the bronzes were kept as far away as New Zealand, the United States and Japan. The two artefacts were handed over to the Nigerian High Commission in October by the University of Aberdeen and Cambridge University's Jesus College but have yet to return to their ancestral home. "They are not just art but they are things that underline the significance of our spirituality," Edosonmwan said in an interview on the sidelines of a ceremony attended by traditional leaders. Watch | Terrorists Kidnap 20 children in Nigeria's Borno state The return is another milestone in the years-long fight by African countries to recover looted works, as numerous European institutions are grappling with the cultural legacies of colonialism. Some 90% of Africa's cultural heritage is believed to be in Europe, French art historians estimate. Musée du quai Branly–Jacques Chirac in Paris alone holds around 70,000 African objects and London's British Museum tens of thousands more.

Nigeria's looted Benin bronzes returned, more than a century later

Nigerian sprinter Blessing Okagbare has been banned for 10 years for doping and refusing to co-operate with the investigation, the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) said on Friday.

Okagbare, who won silver in the long jump at the Beijing 2008 Games, was provisionally suspended last year after testing positive for human growth hormone before the Tokyo Olympics and later hit with three separate anti-doping charges.

The 33-year-old had competed in the 100m heats in Tokyo on July 31 and was due to run in the semi-final before being suspended.

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"The Disciplinary Tribunal has banned Nigerian sprinter Blessing Okagbare for a total of 10 years, five years for the presence and use of multiple prohibited substances and five years for her refusal to co-operate with the AIU's investigation into her case," AIU said in a statement

Okagbare also won silver in the long jump at the 2013 World Championships in Moscow, while also securing a bronze in the 200m at the same event.

"We welcome the decision of the Disciplinary Tribunal; a ban of 10-years is a strong message against intentional and coordinated attempts to cheat at the very highest level of our sport," added Brett Clothier, head of the AIU.

Nigerian sprinter Blessing Okagbare has been banned for 10 years for doping and refusing to co-operate with the investigation, the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) said on Friday.

Nigerian sprinter Blessing Okagbare has been banned for 10 years for doping and refusing to co-operate with the investigation, the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) said on Friday. Okagbare, who won silver in the long jump at the Beijing 2008 Games, was provisionally suspended last year after testing positive for human growth hormone before the Tokyo Olympics and later hit with three separate anti-doping charges. The 33-year-old had competed in the 100m heats in Tokyo on July 31 and was due to run in the semi-final before being suspended. ALSO READ: Beijing Olympics: Braisaz-Bouchet overcomes rough shooting conditions, wins gold in 12.5 km mass start "The Disciplinary Tribunal has banned Nigerian sprinter Blessing Okagbare for a total of 10 years, five years for the presence and use of multiple prohibited substances and five years for her refusal to co-operate with the AIU's investigation into her case," AIU said in a statement Okagbare also won silver in the long jump at the 2013 World Championships in Moscow, while also securing a bronze in the 200m at the same event. "We welcome the decision of the Disciplinary Tribunal; a ban of 10-years is a strong message against intentional and coordinated attempts to cheat at the very highest level of our sport," added Brett Clothier, head of the AIU.

Athletics Integrity Unit bans Nigerian sprinter Blessing Okagbare for 10 years under doping charges

An oil production vessel having the capacity to carry up to 2 million barrels of oil exploded off the coast of Nigeria with 10 crew members on board.

According to reports, the Trinity Spirit blew up on early Wednesday at the Ukpokiti oil field off Nigeria’s coast, near the Escravos terminal close to the Niger delta.

A video of the dramatic incident went viral on social media purportedly showing the ship on fire as it sinks into the sea, with thick black smoke billowing into the sky.

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Trinity FPSO explosion, this oil and gas jobs that don't pay well anymore, with high risk😪😪 <a href="https://t.co/fj5iV9qVlt">pic.twitter.com/fj5iV9qVlt</a>
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The vessel is a floating production storage vessel (FPSO), owned by Nigeria's Shebah Exploration &amp; Production Company Ltd (SEPCOL).

In a statement on Thursday, SEPCOL said that flames had engulfed the Trinity Spirit floating production, storage and offloading vessel following the blast.

“But we can confirm that there were 10 crewmen onboard the vessel prior to the incident and we are prioritising investigations with respect to their safety and security,” SEPCOL Chief Executive Ikemefuna Okafor said in the statement.

The statement however did not give additional duties on the casualties, or the quantity of oil spilt into the sea.

The Nigerian government has described the impact of the spill as being “like Hiroshima”, with the leaking oil causing the death of marine life and damage to mangroves and waterways.

The explosion of the Trinity Spirit is reportedly the fourth major oil spill this year, after disasters in Peru, Ecuador and Thailand.

Nigeria is the 15th biggest oil-producing country in the world, producing more than 1.9m barrels a day, according to 2016 figures.

(With inputs from agencies)

An oil production vessel having the capacity to carry up to 2 million barrels of oil exploded off the coast of Nigeria with 10 crew members on board. According to reports, the Trinity Spirit blew up on early Wednesday at the Ukpokiti oil field off Nigeria’s coast, near the Escravos terminal close to the Niger delta.

An oil production vessel having the capacity to carry up to 2 million barrels of oil exploded off the coast of Nigeria with 10 crew members on board. According to reports, the Trinity Spirit blew up on early Wednesday at the Ukpokiti oil field off Nigeria’s coast, near the Escravos terminal close to the Niger delta. A video of the dramatic incident went viral on social media purportedly showing the ship on fire as it sinks into the sea, with thick black smoke billowing into the sky. Trinity FPSO explosion, this oil and gas jobs that don't pay well anymore, with high risk😪😪 pic.twitter.com/fj5iV9qVlt — Jaguda_rated (@franz411) February 3, 2022 × The vessel is a floating production storage vessel (FPSO), owned by Nigeria's Shebah Exploration & Production Company Ltd (SEPCOL). In a statement on Thursday, SEPCOL said that flames had engulfed the Trinity Spirit floating production, storage and offloading vessel following the blast. “But we can confirm that there were 10 crewmen onboard the vessel prior to the incident and we are prioritising investigations with respect to their safety and security,” SEPCOL Chief Executive Ikemefuna Okafor said in the statement. The statement however did not give additional duties on the casualties, or the quantity of oil spilt into the sea. The Nigerian government has described the impact of the spill as being “like Hiroshima”, with the leaking oil causing the death of marine life and damage to mangroves and waterways. The explosion of the Trinity Spirit is reportedly the fourth major oil spill this year, after disasters in Peru, Ecuador and Thailand. Nigeria is the 15th biggest oil-producing country in the world, producing more than 1.9m barrels a day, according to 2016 figures. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Oil vessel capable of carrying 2 million barrels explodes off Nigeria coast

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